American Hornbeam (Musclewood)

Name: American Hornbeam (Musclewood)
Brand: Pro Growers of New England, Inc
SKU: PGNE-21002
Price: 166.83 USD
Availability: OutOfStock

$166.83

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Size 20" AGFB - 1-1.5" caliper (8-10' tall) 20" AGFB - 1.5-2" caliper (10-12' tall) 20" AGFB - 2-2.5" caliper (12-14' tall) 20" AGFB - 2.5-3" caliper (14-16' tall)

Out of stock

Carpinus caroliniana

Choose American Hornbeam for a native, smaller-scale shade tree in a woodland or moist yard; the tradeoff is slow payoff, so do not pick it when you need quick canopy or a formal street-tree look.

Buy This If

You want a native understory tree.
Your site holds steady moisture.
You like bark and natural form.

Skip This If

You need fast shade.
Your soil dries out hard.
You want a narrow upright tree.

PGNE Report Card

Category	Grade	Why
Landscape Impact	B	Its bark, branching, and fall color read best up close or in a natural planting, not as a bold front-lawn centerpiece.
Growth Rate	C+	It is not a quick shade maker, so buy it for character and site fit rather than fast canopy.
Maintenance	B+	Once established in the right soil, pruning is usually limited to shaping and removing low or crossing limbs.
Deer Resistance	B+	Deer tend to leave this tree alone, though young plants can be browsed or rubbed where pressure is heavy.
Small Space Fit	B	It fits many residential yards better than large shade trees, but it still needs room to spread naturally.
Screening Value	D	It is a small shade tree, not a privacy plant, and its branching will not make a reliable screen.

Our Experience

At PGNE, we would steer homeowners toward American Hornbeam for shaded, natural areas where a quiet native tree makes sense. For speed, street presence, or privacy, we would point you elsewhere.

Plant Facts

Mature Height	27.5 ft
Mature Width	25 ft
Hardiness Zones	3a-8a
Spacing	22.5 ft
Sun	Full Sun to Full Shade
Moisture	Average to moist
Growth Habit	Upright, rounded

Customers Usually Ask

Is Musclewood the same as American Hornbeam?

Yes, Musclewood is the common nickname, referring to the smooth, muscular-looking bark.

Will it grow in shade?

Yes, shade tolerance is one of the main reasons to choose it.

Is it good for privacy?

No, use it as a small shade or understory tree, not as a screen.

Why Trees Are a Lasting Investment

Trees bring structure, shade, and long-term value to any landscape. From flowering ornamentals to strong canopy trees, they define property lines, create privacy, and provide cooling relief during the summer months. Over time, trees grow into the most impactful and permanent feature of a landscape, adding both beauty and property value.

Shade & Energy Efficiency - Mature trees reduce summer heat, lower cooling costs, and create comfortable outdoor living spaces.
Long-Term Property - Value Established trees significantly increase curb appeal and overall home value.
Year-Round Landscape - Impact From spring growth to fall color and winter structure, trees provide continuous seasonal interest.

Pro Growers of New England, Inc

SKU:PGNE-21002

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American Hornbeam (Musclewood)